ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -Astrocytes are essential for the formation and maintenance of the BBB by providing secreted factors that lead to the adequate association between the cells of the BBB and the formation of strong tight junctions.

Detailed explanation-2: -The blood-brain barrier is a multicellular, compound structure composed of endothelial cells, pericytes and astrocytes in direct contact with brain tissue. The BBB is a compound structure following the brain’s labyrinth of vasculature. It’s composed of 4 cell types: Endothelial Cells.

Detailed explanation-3: -Astrocytes not only regulate blood flow, but also transfer mitochondria to neurons, and supply the building blocks of neurotransmitters, which fuel neuronal metabolism [2, 11, 57]. In addition, astrocytes can phagocytose synapses, alter neurotrophin secretion, and clear debris [14, 58].

Detailed explanation-4: -The blood–brain barrier is formed by endothelial cells of the capillary wall, astrocyte end-feet ensheathing the capillary, and pericytes embedded in the capillary basement membrane.